Mumbai, November 8: Purushottam Laxman Deshpande, popularly known as Pu La Deshpande, would have turned 101 today, on Sunday, November 8, 2020. The famous Marathi writer, satirist, humourist, orator, musician and script-writer has left a lasting legacy in the world of Marathi and Indian literature. Deshpande was born in Gavdevi Area in Kurpal Hemraj Chawl in Mumbai to Laxman Trimbak Deshpande and Laxmibai Laxman Deshpande. Pu La Deshpande was born on November 8, 1919. He was also bestowed with the title of "Maharashtra's most beloved," as the mere mention of his name brought a smile on the faces of readers and masses.

Lovingly called as Pu La by legions of fans and readers, Deshpande enthralled audiences not only with his humourous take on things from day to day life, but also through the lively readings of his work. He was a raconteur par excellence and his animated narration of his work was something that readers eagerly waited for. Deshpande considered Charlie Chaplin and Rabindranath Tagore as his inspiration and influences in life.

Watch Pu La Deshpande Reading His Works in Videos Below

Another of Pu La Deshpande's Famous Readings

Watch a Documentary on the Life of Pu La Deshpande Below

In 2019, to mark the birth centenary of Pu La Deshpande, the Maharashtra Sahitya Parishad released audio books of articles and books not recorded by Pu La Deshpande. As a tribute to the writer and litterateur, Deshpande's works have been read by actor Dilip Prabhavalkar and poet Aruna Dhere.

‘Ek Shunya Me’ and ‘Apulki’ are the famous works by the writer that will be among the 38 articles and works by Deshpande which were released, reported The Times of India. Though Pu La Deshpande breathed his last almost two decades ago (in 2000), he continues to live in the hearts of readers as well as inspire every aspiring writer in Marathi language to pour their heart on the paper. We pay our tributes to the great writer on this occasion.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Nov 08, 2020 01:11 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).